Vitamin D helps build bones and controls the balance of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Deficiencies can cause skeletal deformities and muscular disorders if left untreated. Because the skin is able to produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, adequate sun exposure can prevent deficiencies. For individuals who do not get enough sun, food and supplements can prevent and treat deficiencies of vitamin D.
Symptoms
Vitamin D deficiency causes skeletal deformities and soft bones in children, a condition called rickets. In adults, a severe vitamin D deficiency results in muscle pain and spasms, bone pain, weakness and a high likelihood of developing bone fractures. Infants with vitamin D deficiency may have a soft skull and the fonatnelles, openings between the skull plates, may refuse to close.
Causes
Inadequate sun exposure can cause a vitamin D deficiency, because this vitamin is made by the skin when a person is exposed to ultraviolet light. People who don't spend much time outdoors or who cover their skin completely with clothing or sunscreen when outdoors may be unable to produce sufficient vitamin D. Individuals with dark skin may also have trouble producing enough vitamin D and may need more sun exposure than lighter-skinned people. Some hereditary disorders and drugs, such as anticonvulsant medication, can also cause problems with vitamin D synthesis and absorption, which may lead to a deficiency.
Treatment
Someone with a severe vitamin D deficiency needs high doses of the nutrient to recover. Dosages of up to 600,000 IU can be administered either orally or through intramuscular injection as a single dose. Alternately, high doses from 5,000 to 500,000 IU may be given daily for a few weeks or months, depending on the severity of the deficiency and the response to treatment. A doctor will prescribe the appropriate dosage and monitor blood serum levels of vitamin D throughout the course of treatment.
Prevention
The main way to prevent a vitamin D deficiency is to get five to 30 minutes of full sunlight at least three times a week. This usually provides enough UVB exposure to produce adequate levels of vitamin D. Many foods, including milk, some juices and commercial cereals, are fortified with vitamin D and can provide an additional source of this vitamin. A few foods, such as salmon, tuna, sardines and liver, contain natural vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements in doses of 400 to 1,000 IU are available for individuals who cannot get enough vitamin D through sun exposure or food.
Special Considerations
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all breast-fed babies receive 400 IU of supplemental vitamin D as a preventative measure. Breast-fed babies are particularly vulnerable to deficiencies, as breast milk contains little vitamin D. Infant formula is fortified with this vitamin, so additional supplementation is not required for formula-fed infants. According to Merck Manuals, older people need more vitamin D and may require supplementation of up to 2,000 IU each day. Consult a doctor before supplementing with vitamin D.
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